OPINION
Former Tottenham manager Tim Sherwood suggested that Toby Alderweireld was likely to exit the club in the summer and he is probably right to do so.
The 50-year-old shared he thought it was unlikely the defender would be wearing a Spurs shirt next season before directly stating that the centre-back won’t be at the club next season if he is motivated by money.
“I think it’s unlikely we will see Alderweireld in a Tottenham shirt next season,” said Sherwood in an Q & A with Bwin.
“Alderweireld is reaching the stage in his career where he only has one big move left and he is probably looking for that super pay day.
“Tottenham will not offer him the pay day he wants but they have reached the latter stages of the Champions League and EFL Cup this season so we will now find out what really motivates him.
“Alderweireld will not be a Tottenham player next season if he is motivated by money.”
Given that Alderweireld’s worrying contract situation has been well-documented in recent times, it’s hard not to believe that his exit is probable as the situation still hasn’t changed.
As it stands after Spurs triggered an option in the defender’s contract to see his current deal run until 2020, there’s is a £25million release clause, as stated by the Telegraph, that can be activated by other clubs in the coming window.
Until that clause expires or is nullified by Alderweireld signing a new deal, it’s hard not to envision him packing his bags.
However while Sherwood is spot-on to envision Spurs without the defender, his sly dig is completely uncalled for.
Firstly saying a player is just motivated by money carries a negative connotation and it’s not like Sherwood is a close personal adviser of Alderweireld so knows what is truly going on with that player; so it’s not his business to say.
Secondly a previous report by the Daily Mail revealed that money wasn’t the only issue causing Alderweireld not to sign a new deal as he was also looking for a lengthy deal to be tabled; so the size of the offer may not even be the sticking point.
Also even if Alderweireld is motivated to leave as he wants a big pay day, who can blame him?
The 30-year-old knows what he is worth so why wouldn’t he seek the pay he desires? Everyone would.
It’s also worth noting that despite his contract situation being up in the air, Alderweireld has done nothing but be a constant professional on the pitch for Mauricio Pochettino’s side this season.
The centre-back has wowed across his 48 appearances this season and if Spurs end up lifting his Champions League he would of done his part.
So with that in mind, Sherwood should thank Alderweireld for his service if he leaves, not kick him on the way out if he does depart in the summer.